Brooklyn based four piece Earthquake Lights transcends genre: with jazz influences and string heavy arrangements, their alt-rock sound takes on a richer, fuller tone. Their latest offering, Signs of Life, is a nine track album released on July 24th that dives into themes of introspection and self reflection. Full of harmonic depth and the sound of analog & acoustic instruments, Signs Of Life is a celebration of authenticity and craftsmanship, leaning into the human aspect of musicianship rather than focusing on technological advancements.
Across it’s 9 tracks, Signs Of Life incorporates everything from orchestral strings to analog synthesizers. Opening track “Silhouette,” which was also the first single from the album, begins with lush string arrangements and falsetto vocals that take listeners through a journey of yearning for something more, something out in the universe. It immediately immerses listeners into the album, easing them into the warm sonic space that Earthquake Lights has crafted.
Moving into “Pictures,” the only track that includes a featured artist (Lindsey Lomis), narrates the story of someone reflecting on a past relationship through pictures. “Pictures” has a jazz combo feel, with a steady cymbal beat carrying through to the swells of orchestral strings & vocal harmonies.
“Heartbeat” is a stand out, building into a swooping crescendo and then a soaring guitar solo. The lyrics remind listeners to cherish their loved ones, as nothing is ever guaranteed. It’s a powerful track both in instrumental and in lyricism. Shifting away from the intensity, “In Your Dreams” is a warm, comforting track full of synthesizer lines and a soft drum pattern. “Close your eyes, it’s alright,” lead singer Myles Rodenhouse reassures on the chorus.
“A Dead Wind” explores themes of a self growth journey. It’s vulnerable and profound, with the swell of strings conveying the yearning. This is the longest track on the album, sitting at just over five minutes, and features a few instrumental sections. It’s followed by the upbeat “Oil On Canvas,” a track with a driving chorus a warm piano chord progression. It features Rodenhouse’s vocals in a lower register, straying away from the falsetto used throughout most of the album. It’s a bit of a tone shift from the more ballad-esque songs that make up the first half of the album, but still feels as though it’s cohesive with the other tracks.
“January” immediately kicks off with a drum beat, telling the journey of birds traveling south for the winter. It’s a track focused on acceptance, and pursuing the life you want. “We’ll see where it goes,” Rodenhouse sings. The lyrics cover themes of both reflection and looking ahead, and the dichotomy between moving forward while acknowledging your past. “Four Letter Words” explores themes of human connection, how humans are similar, and yet can be so different. It’s a bit ominous sounding at times, teetering the edge between different emotions. The album then wraps up with “Long Lost,” a fleshed out piano ballad that begs for guidance. “Show me the way,” Rodenhouse pleads in the lyrics. Halfway through, the instrumentals transition to a heavier, more intense sonic space, taking the listener on a journey. It’s a bittersweet ending, leaving listeners reflecting on their own past and futures.
Through fusing various genres and influences, Earthquake Lights has created a unique, expressive sound that is showcased throughout Signs Of Life. Their commitment to artistry and authenticity doesn’t go unnoticed, making them a band to watch.
Listen to Signs Of Life here!
